Associate Vice President for Business and Finance
Location: Hickory, North Carolina
The Associate Vice President for Business and Finance is a key leadership position within Lenior-Rhyne University. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Business and Finance, this role plays a critical role in overseeing the financial operations of the institution. The Associate Vice President for Business and Finance is responsible for providing strategic direction and leadership to the Controller's Office and Office of Student Accounts, ensuring the financial health and compliance of the university.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Strategy and Planning:
- Develop and implement financial strategies, policies and procedures to support the university's overall mission and goals.
- Collaborate with senior leadership to establish financial goals and objectives and provide guidance on financial decision-making.
- Monitor and analyze financial trends, risks and opportunities, and make recommendations for improvements.
Controller's Office Oversight.
- Provide leadership and direction to the Controller's Office, overseeing accounting, financial reporting and compliance activities.
- Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and relevant regulations.
- Manage internal and external audits, and work to address any findings or recommendations.
Office of Student Accounts Oversight:
- Provide leadership and direction to the Office of Student Accounts, including billing, collections and student financial services.
- Develop and implement policies and procedures related to student tuition, fees and refunds, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.
- Collaborate with the Admissions Office and Office of Financial Aid to optimize student billing and payment processes.
Budget Management:
- Oversee the university's annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads and budget managers.
- Monitor budget performance, identify variances and take corrective actions as needed.
- Provide financial forecasts and projections to support long-term planning.
Compliance and Risk Management:
- Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations, including federal and state reporting requirements.
- Develop and maintain an effective system of internal controls to safeguard university assets.
- Identify and mitigate financial risks, working to minimize exposure.
Team Leadership and Development:
- Build and lead a high-performing team within the Controller's Office and Office of Student Accounts.
- Foster a culture of collaboration, professional growth and continuous improvement.
- Set clear performance expectations and provide coaching and mentoring to staff.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or a related field. CPA or master’s degree in finance or accounting preferred.
- Significant experience in financial management and administration, preferably within a higher education institution.
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting and regulatory compliance in the higher education sector.
- Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage and develop a diverse team.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three professional references to Jeremy Shreve (Vice President for Business and Finance) at jeremy.shreve@lr.edu by February 15, 2023.
Lenoir-Rhyne University is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy
Lenoir-Rhyne University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, political affiliation, age, marital status, sex, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, disability status, genetics, pregnancy or veteran status.
Lenoir-Rhyne’s Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy extends to all aspects of employment, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, transfer, reassignment, demotion, discipline, discharge, performance evaluations, compensation and benefits as well as the education setting. Lenoir-Rhyne is committed to providing an environment that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging for faculty, staff, students, contractors, volunteers and visitors.